Muhammad a Prophet For all Humanity
5. Lessons of the Prophet’s Life
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‘Utbah and Shaybah were both idolators; but
when they saw the Prophet’s condition, they took
pity on him. They had a Christian slave by the
name of ‘Addas. They told him to fetch a few
bunches of grapes, and take them in a bowl before
their guest. ‘Addas did as he was told: he brought
some grapes to the Prophet and requested him to
partake of them. The Prophet recited the name of
God as he took them in his hand to eat. ‘Addas
looked at the Prophet’s face. “By God,” he said, “it
is not usual for people in this land to utter these
words.” The Prophet asked ‘Addas where he came
from, and what his religion was. ‘Addas replied
that he was a Christian, and hailed from Nineveh
in Iraq. “So you are from the town of the good
Jonah, son of Matthew,” the Prophet observed.
“How do you know Jonah, son of Matthew?”
‘Addas retorted. “He was a prophet, and so am I,”
the Prophet said. On hearing this, ‘Addas bowed
before the Prophet, kissing his head, hands and
feet.
‘Utbah and Shaybah were looking on. “Look,” they
said to one another. “This fellow has corrupted our
servant.” “Shame on you.” they said to ‘Addas
