📜 The Tale of MUQAUQIS (مقوقس‎): The Roman Viceroy of Egypt

Overview

MUQAUQIS (مقوقس) – Muqauqis was a title referring to the Roman Viceroy of Egypt during the early 7th century CE. He is well remembered in Islamic tradition for his interactions with Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). In the year AH 7 (628 CE), Muhammad sent a diplomatic mission to Muqauqis, inviting him to embrace Islam. Muqauqis received the emissaries kindly and responded with a letter expressing his respect and admiration while acknowledging an anticipated prophet. He sent gifts including two female slaves, luxurious clothing, and a mule.

Etymology

The term “Muqauqis” originates from the Greek word “Μακίβιοστις” which was transliterated into Arabic as “Muqauqis”. This title was used for the highest Roman official in Egypt before and during the early Arab expansion.

Historical Background

Muqauqis ruled Egypt as a viceroy under the Byzantine Empire when Prophet Muhammad began his missionary activities. As part of his strategy to spread Islam, Muhammad sent letters to various leaders of neighboring lands, including Muqauqis. Despite his skepticism about the origin of the prophesied leader, Muqauqis demonstrated political tact and etiquette in his courteous response.

Cultural Differences and Similarities

The encounter between Muqauqis and Prophet Muhammad represents early missions of diplomatic and cultural exchange between Islamic and Coptic societies. While Muqauqis did not convert to Islam, his respectful demeanor and the polite exchange of gifts highlight a moment of intercultural respect and mutual recognition.

Synonyms

• Roman Viceroy of Egypt
• Byzantine Governor of Egypt

Antonyms

• Rebel Leader of Egypt
• Anti-Islamic Official

Related Terms

• Prophet Muhammad (ص) (PBUH): The founder of Islam who sent the emissary to Muqauqis.
• Mary the Copt (مارية القبطية): One of the slaves sent by Muqauqis; she later became a significant figure in Islamic tradition.
• Byzantine Empire: The ruling entity over Egypt during Muqauqis’s tenure.

Exciting Facts

• The respectful manner in which Muqauqis received Prophet Muhammad’s emissary demonstrates the cross-cultural diplomatic etiquette of the time.
• Muqauqis is often remembered for sending Mary the Copt, who later had a son, Ibrahim, with Prophet Muhammad.

Quotations

“I send for thine acceptance two female slaves, who are much admired by the Copts, and also a present of raiment, and a mule for thee to ride on.” – Muqauqis

“Verily, thy messenger hath been received with honor.” – Muqauqis

References

1. The Life of Muhammad by Ibn Ishaq
2. The Sealed Nectar by Safi-ur-Rahman al-Mubarakpuri
3. In the Shade of the Qur’an by Sayyid Qutb
4. Islamic Historiography by Chase F. Robinson

Suggested Literature

• “Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources” by Martin Lings
• “Makers of History: Muhammad” by Daniel Kirk
• “The Early Islamic Conquests” by Fred M. Donner

Inspiration and Farewell

“In culture and humanity, sow seeds of patience and respect; the world will harvest peace and understanding.”

• Fahima Al-Mansoori, 2023