The Fleeing and the Safe Conduct
When the Prophet conquered Mecca in 630 CE, certain individuals had committed acts against Muslims that placed their lives at risk. Safwan ibn Umayyah was among the few for whom no general pardon had been announced. He fled toward the sea, intending to leave Arabia.
His wife Umm Hakim had converted to Islam and interceded for him. The Prophet granted Safwan safe conduct (aman) — four months to observe, witness, and decide without compulsion.
Hunayn: Before Belief
The Battle of Hunayn came immediately after Mecca’s conquest, with the Hawazin tribe attacking. Safwan was still not a Muslim. The Prophet borrowed his armor and weapons for the battle, saying: “A guaranteed loan, Safwan.”
Safwan watched the battle. When the Muslims initially fled under the arrow-storm, then rallied and won decisively, he watched the entire turn of the battle.
When the Prophet returned his armor, Safwan said: “You fulfilled your guarantee (wafaytu l-dhimam).” According to the sources, this was the moment his heart turned — witnessing both defeat (which might have hardened him) and victory, he saw something he could not dismiss.
He accepted Islam shortly after.
The Converted Enemy’s Generosity
After his conversion, Safwan became one of the most generous of the later Companions. He is reported to have been given large gifts of camels and sheep — and then given them all away to people who had come to him in need.
See also: Seerah Umar Ibn Khattab, Seerah Abu Bakr, Prophet Muhammad, Hijra, Seerah Ikrima Ibn Abi Jahl, Seerah Aisha