Who first one gave royal gift to the Holy Prophet (SAW)?

The correct answer is Najashi (also known as Ashama ibn Abjar), the Emperor of the Kingdom of Aksum (modern-day Ethiopia and Eritrea).

In the annals of Islamic history, the relationship between the early Muslim community and the Negus (Najashi) of Abyssinia is one of the most significant alliances. Najashi was a devout Christian ruler known for his justice and compassion. He holds the distinction of being the first sovereign ruler to send a royal gift to the Holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, marking the beginning of formal diplomatic interactions between the Islamic state and foreign powers.

The Context of the First Migration

The connection between the Prophet ﷺ and Najashi began during the "First Migration" (Hijrat-e-Habsha) in the 5th year of Prophethood. To escape the brutal persecution of the Quraish in Mecca, a small group of Muslims, including Hazrat Ja'far bin Abi Talib (RA), sought refuge in Abyssinia. The Prophet ﷺ specifically recommended this land because its king was known as a "just ruler in whose realm no one is oppressed."

When the Quraish sent a delegation with expensive gifts to convince Najashi to deport the Muslims, the King refused to act without hearing both sides. After hearing Hazrat Ja'far (RA) recite verses from Surah Maryam, Najashi was deeply moved and declared that the message of the Quran and the message of Jesus (AS) came from the same source. He granted the Muslims permanent protection and royal sanctuary.

The Exchange of Gifts

Following this profound encounter and as the Prophet's ﷺ influence grew in Arabia, Najashi was the first to formalize their relationship through a royal gesture. Historical accounts mention that Najashi sent several gifts to the Prophet ﷺ in Medina. Among the most famous of these gifts were two high-quality leather socks (Khuffain), which the Prophet ﷺ accepted and wore. This act was highly symbolic; in the seventh century, a royal gift from a sovereign of a major empire like Aksum was a clear indication of political and religious recognition.

Beyond physical items, Najashi also played a logistical role in the Prophet's ﷺ life. He acted as the representative (Wakil) for the Prophet ﷺ in his marriage to Hazrat Umm Habiba (RA), who was among the emigrants in Abyssinia. Najashi even paid the dower (Mahr) on behalf of the Prophet ﷺ and hosted a wedding feast, further cementing the bond between the two leaders.

A Unique Legacy

The respect between the Prophet ﷺ and Najashi was so great that when the news of Najashi’s death reached Medina in 9 AH, the Prophet ﷺ informed his companions and led the Salat al-Gha’ib (the funeral prayer in absentia) for him. This was the first and only time the Prophet ﷺ performed this specific prayer for a ruler who was not physically present.

For students of history, the story of Najashi’s gift is more than just a fact; it represents the first successful bridge built between the Islamic world and a Christian kingdom. It serves as a testament to the Prophet’s ﷺ ability to earn the respect of international figures through his character and the truth of his message, long before the conquest of Mecca.