Al-Harith ibn Umayr al-Azdi was sent by the Prophet ﷺ as an envoy carrying a letter to Heraclius. Passing through the lands of the Ghassanids (the largest Arab Christian tribe, and Arab vassals of the Romans) he was captured and brought before their chieftain, Shurahbil ibn Amr. When al-Harith identified himself as the Prophet ﷺ's envoy and asked to be let go, Shurahbil mocked and tortured him, then killed him with his own hands and spear, a grave violation of the customary protection given to envoys and messengers.
According to al-Waqidi's account, the earliest reason given for the Battle of Mu'tah, it was in response to this killing that the Prophet ﷺ sent an army against the Ghassanids.
Other events recorded in 8 AH. Their order within the year is not established; use the storyline above for the sequence.
Who are you?
Asked of al-Harith ibn Umayr al-Azdi RA, the Prophet ﷺ's envoy, after the Ghassanids captured him while he was carrying a letter to Heraclius and brought him before their chieftain.
I am the envoy of Muhammad ﷺ. Here is my letter to Heraclius: you must let me go.