Zayd al-Khayr

Who is Zayd al-Khayr?

Zayd al-Khayr was a noted, significant companion of Muhammad, the prophet of Islam. Hailing from the tribe of Tayy in northern Nejd. He was originally known as Zayd al-Khayl, but after becoming Muslim, Muhammad renamed him Zayd al-Khayr.

After learning information about Muhammad, Zayd made enquiries and decided to travel to Medina and meet him, taking a delegation of his people including Zurr ibn Sudoos, Malik ibn Jubayr, Aamir ibn Duwayn and others. When they reached Medina, they entered Masjid al-Nabawi while he was addressing his congregation. Zayd and his delegation were astonished by the attention of the Muslims and the effect of his words on them. Muhammad said:

"I am better for you than al-Uzza and everything else that you worship. I am better for you than the black camel which you worship besides God."

Some of Zayd's delegation responded positively and accepted Islam while others did not. When Muhammad had finished speaking, Zayd stood up and said:

"O Muhammad, I testify that there is no god but God and that you are the messenger of God."