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When Heraclius learned that a Koraysh caravan had reached his empire he
thought that it would be an excellent opportunity to learn first hand about the man
people called a prophet. With this in mind he sent a messenger to the Koraysh
caravan requesting their presence in his court. Now the leader of the caravan
was none other than the Abu Sufyan!

When Abu Sufyan and his companions arrived, Heraclius had them ushered into
is court where he had assembled all of his most senior Roman senators.

Heraclius spoke "Who amongst you is closely related to the man who claims to
be a prophet?" he asked. Abu Sufyan replied "I am his nearest relative."
Heraclius asked him to step forward and for the others to step back then told him
that there were several questions he wished to ask concerning the Prophet.

Then, addressing Abu Sufyan's companions Heraclius said "If he says something
that is not true, you must speak up."

Now honor and respect were essential characteristics of Arab chieftains, to loose
either in front of his companions would be unthinkable. Abu Sufyan was heard to