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However, Abu Talib, the uncle of the Prophet, was a much respected
figurehead amongst the tribal chieftains and supported his nephew against
his fellow chieftains whenever the need arose. It was for that reason, and
that reason only, that the Koraysh restrained themselves from trying to
physically harm the Prophet, however, that did not stop them in their
unsuccessful attempts to bribe the Prophet in exchange for his silence.

Abu Talib was now elderly and stricken by a serious illness from which he
was not destined to recover. His successor, Abu Lahab, was also an uncle
of the Prophet, praise and peace be upon him, however Abu Lahab was his
worst enemy and the Prophet, praise and peace be upon him, knew he
could expect no support whatsoever from him. The result was that the
Muslims faced increased persecution and torture under the hands of the
wealthy and tribal chieftains, and Abu Lahab did nothing to stop it, rather,
he encouraged it.

In the hope of spreading Islam through the conversion of an influential tribe
the Prophet, praise and peace be upon him, made the long, wearisome