Holy Prophet Hazrat Muhammad (PBUH) performed the funeral of which king?

The Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) performed the funeral prayer of King Najashi, also known as Ashama ibn Abjar, the righteous king of Abyssinia (Habsha). Najashi holds a special and honorable place in Islamic history because of his extraordinary kindness, justice, and protection of the early Muslims who migrated to his kingdom during the period of persecution in Makkah. When Muslims, including Hazrat Ja’far ibn Abi Talib (RA), sought refuge under his rule, he welcomed them warmly, listened to their message, and refused to hand them over to the Quraysh despite political pressure.

Najashi later embraced Islam privately after recognizing the truth of the message brought by the Prophet (PBUH). Although he lived far from Madinah, his faith remained sincere and steadfast. When news of his death reached Madinah, the Prophet (PBUH) informed his Companions that “A righteous brother has passed away,” and he gathered the Sahaba to offer Salat-ul-Janaza in absentia (Ghaibana Janaza) for King Najashi. This was the first funeral prayer in absentia performed in Islamic history, demonstrating the high spiritual rank and respect the Prophet (PBUH) held for him.

The Prophet’s decision to lead Najashi’s funeral prayer shows the deep bond of brotherhood in faith that transcended race, land, and nationality. It also highlights Najashi’s unique contribution to Islam, as he offered protection to vulnerable Muslims at a crucial moment in history