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Harith ibn Murrah al-Abdi, was from the Rabeeah branch of the Abdul Qais tribe, and is known for his service as the Qadhi (chief justice) of Sindh during the caliphate of Uthman ibn Affan, al-Abdi was also a notable military leader. He led campaigns into Balochistan with a contingent of 1,000 warriors and was involved in significant military operations against Sindhi bandits. He was killed while investigating murders at the behest of Ali ibn Abi Talib.

Early life and background

al-Abdi belonged to the Rabeeah branch of the Abdul Qais tribe. His tribe was prominent in the early Islamic community, contributing many members to the Islamic cause.

Career

as Qadhi of Sindh

During the caliphate of Uthman ibn Affan, Harith ibn Murrah al-Abdi served as the Qadhi (chief justice) of the Sindh region.

Military campaigns and contributions

al-Abdi was instrumental in expanding the influence of Islam into the far southeastern provinces. He, along with his 1,000 warriors, advanced into the territory of Balochistan, furthering the reach of the Islamic state. Alongside Sayfi ibn Fil 'al-Shaybani, another officer of Ali's army, Harith ibn Murrah al-Abdi attacked Sindhi bandits.

Conquest of Kaikan

The historians note the first raid Al-Baladhuri, Ibn Sa'd and Khalifah ibn Khayyat to have taken place in 658 CE. Kaikan was known as al-Qiqan to them and was located near Quetta. Where al-Abdi and Sayfi ibn Fil al-Shaybani had participated in this first raid.

as an investigator

al-Abdi was also entrusted with investigating significant matters of the state. For instance, during Ali ibn Abi Talib reign, he sent him to investigate the murders of individuals such as Khabbab ibn al-Aratt and his pregnant bondmaid. Where there, during these investigations, al-Abdi was killed.

See also

• Abdallah ibn Sawwar al-Abdi

References

1. ^ "The Forgotten Narrative: Uncovering the Origins of Muslims of Indian Subcontinent".
2. The different aspects of islamic culture: The Spread of Islam throughout the World. UNESCO. 31 December 2011. ISBN 978-92-3-104153-2.
3. Padalkar, Ravindra (12 September 2024). Muslims - Around the World. Notion Press. ISBN 979-8-89519-539-0.
4. Maclean, Derryl N. (1989). Religion and society in Arab Sind. Leiden, Netherlands / New York / København: E.J. Brill. p. 126. ISBN 978-90-04-08551-0.
5. Al-Jibouri, Yasin T. (11 February 2013). Nahjul-Balagha: Path of Eloquence. Author House. ISBN 978-1-4817-1264-4.
6. "Sermons from Imam Ali, Nahj ul Balagha".

• 7th-century military personnel
• Military leaders
• People from Sindh
• Martyrs