Migration to Abyssinia Migration to Abyssinia The Migration to Abyssinia (, "al-hijra ʾilā al-habaša"), also known as the First Hegira ( "hijrah"), was an episode in the early history of Islam, where Prophet Muhammad's first followers (the "Sahabah") fled from the persecution of the ruling Quraysh tribe of Mecca. They sought refuge in the Christian Kingdom of Aksum, present-day Eritrea and Ethiopia (formerly referred to as Abyssinia, an ancient name whose origin is debated), in or . The Aksumite monarch who received them is known in Islamic sources as the Negus ( "najāšī") "Ashama ibn Abjar". Modern historians have alternatively identified him with
British Expedition to Abyssinia my Sovereign has commanded me to lead an Army to liberate them. All who befriend the prisoners or assist in their liberation shall be well rewarded, but those who may injure them shall be severely punished. When the time shall arrive for the march of a British Army through your country, bear in mind, People of Abyssinia, that the Queen of England has no unfriendly feelings towards you, and no design against your country or your Liberty." "Your religious establishments, your persons and your property shall be carefully protected. "All supplies required for my soldiers shall be paid for. No