SALMAN AL-FARISI

flourished 7th century, ; b. near Esfahan, Iran popular figure in Muslim legend, and a national hero of Iran. He was a companion of the Prophet Muhammad. While still a boy he became a Christian, left his father's house, and began a long religious quest. He traveled to Syria and then to central Arabia, seeking the prophet who, he was told, would revive the religion of Abraham. On the way he was sold into slavery. In Medina he met Muhammad, with whose aid he purchased his freedom. The most important event connected with Salman is the Battle of the Ditch in 627. According to tradition, when the Meccans came to besiege Muhammad in Medina, it was Salman who suggested that, instead of the usual practice of the besieged sallying out to meet their opponents, a ditch be dug across the city's approaches as a form of protection. This was an innovation in Arabian warfare and was instrumental in Muhammad's successful defense. Little is known of Salman al-Farisi as a historical figure. His fame is due largely to his nationalityhe was a prototype of the Persians who were converted to Islam and who played a central role in the course of Muslim history. Salman also has been important in Muslim religious thought. The moderates of the Shi'ite sect gave him special respect because of his nearness to the Prophet, and the extreme Shi'ites count him as one of the divine emanations recognized by their theology.