Islamic History
Heraclius' Response to Prophet Muhammad's Letter
Heraclius gave Dihye b. Khalifa gifts, valuable presents and clothes.[141] He also wrote a reply to the letter of our Prophet (Peace be upon him). In his response he said: “To Muhammad, Allah’s Messenger, from Caesar, the Roman Emperor: An envoy came to me with your letter. I bear witness that you are indeed Allah’s Messenger! We have already found you mentioned in the Gospel which we possess. Jesus son of Mary has given us tidings about you. I invited my people to believe in you but they turned away and avoided it. If only they had listened to me, it would have been better for them. How I wish that I could be with you and serve you, washing your feet!”[142]