Abu Sufyan ibn al-Harith

Abu Sufyan ibn al-Harith ibn 'Abd al-Muttalib (died c. 636 CE) was a prominent companion, first cousin, and foster brother of the Prophet Muhammad. A distinguished horseman and poet of the Quraysh, he initially used his poetic talent to satirize the Prophet and oppose Islam for two decades. However, he embraced Islam just before the Conquest of Mecca in 630 CE and became a devoted follower. He demonstrated exceptional valor during the Battle of Hunayn by remaining steadfast beside the Prophet when others retreated. Following his conversion, he dedicated his poetry to praising the Prophet and composed moving elegies upon his death. He died in Medina during the caliphate of Umar ibn al-Khattab and was buried in Al-Baqi'. He is classified as a Mukhadram poet, having lived through both the Pre-Islamic and Islamic eras.