It is well known that Abu Sufiyan did not convert to Islam of his own volition and inclination. On the contrary, he became a Muslim out of a feeling of fear and intimidation.
When the Holy Prophet (S) conquered Mecca, Abu Sufiyan came with ‘Abbas ibn ‘Abd al-Muttalib before the Holy Prophet (S) and requested immunity and safe-conduct from the Holy Prophet (S). The Holy Prophet (S) said, “Woe unto you O Abu Sufiyan! Has the time not yet come for you to know that there is no god but Allah?”
Abu Sufiyan said, “May my mother and father be sacrificed for you. How generous and kind you are!” Again, the Holy Prophet (S) said, “O Abu Sufiyan! Has the time not yet arrived for you to accept that I am Allah’s Prophet?” Abu Sufiyan repeated his previous statement and added, “This issue of you being Allah’s Prophet has not yet been settled in my heart.”
‘Abbas said to him, “Woe unto you! Testify to the truth before your neck is cut.” It was only at this time out of compulsion and fear that Abu Sufiyan testified to the truth and accepted Islam.12
When the Holy Prophet (S) conquered Mecca, Abu Sufiyan came with ‘Abbas ibn ‘Abd al-Muttalib before the Holy Prophet (S) and requested immunity and safe-conduct from the Holy Prophet (S). The Holy Prophet (S) said, “Woe unto you O Abu Sufiyan! Has the time not yet come for you to know that there is no god but Allah?”
Abu Sufiyan said, “May my mother and father be sacrificed for you. How generous and kind you are!” Again, the Holy Prophet (S) said, “O Abu Sufiyan! Has the time not yet arrived for you to accept that I am Allah’s Prophet?” Abu Sufiyan repeated his previous statement and added, “This issue of you being Allah’s Prophet has not yet been settled in my heart.”
‘Abbas said to him, “Woe unto you! Testify to the truth before your neck is cut.” It was only at this time out of compulsion and fear that Abu Sufiyan testified to the truth and accepted Islam.12
Notes:
12. Al-Isti‘ab, vol. 4, p. 86; Kitab al-Niza‘ wa al-Takhasum, vol. 3, p. 356.