Shimba Theological Institute
Scholarly Newsletter Article
Title: The Cousin of Muhammad Who Renounced Islam — Ubayd-Allah ibn Jahsh: A Forgotten Witness of the Gospel
By Shimba Theological Institute
Introduction
The name Ubayd-Allah ibn Jahsh is not widely known today, yet he stands among the earliest and most compelling witnesses to the transformative power of the Gospel—even within the challenging and hostile environment of early Islam. A close cousin of the Prophet Muhammad, Ubayd-Allah’s life story provides a unique historical and theological reflection on the encounter between Islam and Christianity in the formative years of the 7th century.
Background: A Noble Lineage and Early Faith
Ubayd-Allah ibn Jahsh was a near relative of Muhammad (peace be upon him) and was among the first individuals to accept Islam when it began to spread in Mecca. However, the early Muslims faced intense persecution from the Quraysh tribe, prompting a small group to flee Mecca in 615 A.D. and seek refuge in the Christian kingdom of Abyssinia (modern-day Ethiopia). This migration, known in Islamic history as the First Hijra, was made under the reign of Negus—a just and compassionate Christian ruler renowned for his kindness toward refugees and the oppressed.
It was in Abyssinia, a land of religious freedom and Christian heritage, that Ubayd-Allah encountered the teachings of Jesus Christ more intimately. Through his exposure to the Gospel, his heart was deeply moved and transformed in a profound way.
Conversion to Christianity
Historical traditions recount that Ubayd-Allah reflected deeply upon the message of the Gospel. After a period of contemplation and prayer, he made a bold and life-altering decision—to renounce Islam and embrace Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. He reportedly declared:
“I have come to know Christ here, and in my heart I have felt a new light that I had never known before. I now follow Christ, the Son of the Living God.”
These words, preserved in early Christian oral traditions, reveal the depth of his spiritual conviction. His decision, however, was met with dismay and hostility from his fellow Muslim emigrants and from his relatives who remained in Mecca.
Persecution and Faithfulness unto Death
Despite pressure, insults, and condemnation, Ubayd-Allah remained steadfast in his newfound faith until his death in Abyssinia. His unwavering commitment serves as a testament to personal conviction and spiritual courage in the face of adversity.
Yet, his story took a dramatic and controversial turn. After Ubayd-Allah’s conversion and subsequent death, the Prophet Muhammad took his widow, Umm Habiba bint Abi Sufyan, as one of his wives. Islamic historians such as Ibn Ishaq and al-Tabari record this event, often in defense of Muhammad’s action and as criticism toward Ubayd-Allah’s apostasy. Nevertheless, this act raises moral and theological questions regarding justice, compassion, and divine retribution.
Moral and Theological Reflections
The incident leaves behind a trail of ethical inquiry. Was Muhammad’s decision to marry the wife of a man who had renounced Islam a matter of divine justice—or personal retaliation? Historical silence on Ubayd-Allah’s own perspective invites reflection on issues of human dignity, religious freedom, and conscience.
Ubayd-Allah’s faith journey was not built upon cultural conformity but upon spiritual revelation and conviction. While others feared losing status or reputation, he chose the way of the cross and bore the cost of discipleship, affirming his allegiance to the risen Christ.
Legacy of Faith
Today, the testimony of Ubayd-Allah ibn Jahsh stands as a symbol of courage, integrity, and divine love that transcends religious, familial, and cultural boundaries. He was not merely Muhammad’s cousin—he was a witness to the Gospel amidst the tempest of opposition.
As the Apostle Paul declares:
“For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth.” — Romans 1:16 (KJV)
Ubayd-Allah’s story is a voice echoing across centuries, reminding believers that truth is worth standing for—even when it costs everything.
Conclusion
Although rarely recounted within Islamic narratives, the life and faith of Ubayd-Allah ibn Jahsh challenge both historians and theologians to re-examine the early intersections of Islam and Christianity. His spiritual journey illustrates the enduring power of the Gospel to illuminate even the darkest contexts.
To the Christian believer, he remains a model of spiritual conviction—one who discovered the light of Christ amidst the shadows of uncertainty and chose eternal truth over temporal allegiance.
References
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Ibn Ishaq. Sirat Rasul Allah (The Life of Muhammad). Translated by A. Guillaume. Oxford University Press, 1955.
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Al-Tabari. Tarikh al-Rusul wa al-Muluk (History of the Prophets and Kings). Vol. II. State University of New York Press, 1987.
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The Holy Bible, King James Version. Romans 1:16.
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Trimingham, J. Spencer. Christianity Among the Arabs in Pre-Islamic Times. Longman, 1979.
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Cragg, Kenneth. The Call of the Minaret. Oxford University Press, 1956.
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