Pakistani judge launches book on prominent Omani personality Al Muhallab Ibn Abi Sufra

Times of Oman

a day ago

MUSCAT: Dr Syed Muhammad Anwer, Alim Judge of the Federal Shariat Court in Pakistan, recently launched his new book, Al Muhallab Ibn Abi Sufra, at a special ceremony held at the Pakistan School Muscat.
The event was attended by prominent figures including Dr. Mohammed Al Hajri, member of the State Council and Chairman of Social and Cultural Committee, Bilal Hasan, Deputy Chief of Mission, Pakistan Embassy, Ameer Hamza, Chairman of the Board at Pakistan Schools Oman as well as senior officials and staff of the Pakistan School Muscat.
Speaking at the launch function, Justice Anwer explained that his choice to write about Al Muhallab Ibn Abi Sufra stemmed from the historic figure's vital contributions to Islamic and Arab history, and his particular significance for both Oman and Pakistan.
'Al Muhallab belonged to the Azd tribe, one of Oman's largest tribes, and was an influential personality who played a vital role in shaping the Omani identity,' he said.
'He was the one who introduced Islam to the region now known as Pakistan in 83 AH(664AD) via the Kabul area. At that time, there were no borders as we see today.'
Describing Al Muhallab as a philosopher, a courageous and wise leader, Anwer highlighted the shared maritime history between Oman and Pakistan across the Sea of Oman and the Arabian Gulf — a legacy that, he noted, is deeply embedded in both Arab and Islamic history and remains relevant for the future.
'Historic figures like Al Muhallab set an example for current and future generations,' he said.
Justice Anwer added that he was keen on launching the book in Muscat — and specifically at the Pakistan School Muscat — in order to engage the younger generation with the legacy of this Omani figure, 'not just for Oman, but for the Pakistani people as well.'
'This will help foster closer ties between Oman and Pakistan,' he said. 'That is part of our responsibility to the next generations — to preserve our shared history, culture, and heritage.'
He clarified that the book is not a biography, but rather an exploration of Al Muhallab's historical influence, especially in relation to Pakistan.
'I gathered many facts and historical documents on Al Muhallab to make such details accessible to current and future generations in Pakistan,' he said.
The book was originally written in Urdu and later translated into Arabic and English.
The Islamic scholar from Pakistan said that Al Muhallab was born in Dibba, in present-day Oman, and later migrated to Iraq, where he emerged as a prominent leader.
'He became a leader of Iraq and a notable figure in Arab and Muslim history. His name even appeared on currency of that time,' he added. The book covers various aspects of Al Muhallab's leadership and legacy, portraying him as a brave and intelligent military commander known for his strategic thinking and wisdom in dealing with enemies.
The launch of the book on Al Muhallab Ibn Abi Sufra in Muscat underscores the importance of historical figures in fostering cross-cultural understanding and highlights the shared heritage between Oman and Pakistan.