The Sahabi believed to be Pashtun is Qais Abdur Rashid.
Qais Abdur Rashid: The Legendary Ancestor
Qais Abdur Rashid (c. 575 – 661), also known as Kesh, Qesh, or Imraul Qais, is revered as the legendary ancestor of the Pashtun people. He is considered the first ethnic Pashtun who traveled to Mecca and Medina during the early days of Islam to meet the Prophet Muhammad.
Key Points about Qais Abdur Rashid
- Legendary Ancestor: Qais Abdur Rashid holds a central position in Pashtun genealogy and oral traditions as the progenitor of the Pashtun tribes.
- Conversion to Islam: According to tradition, Qais Abdur Rashid, along with a delegation, met the Prophet Muhammad and embraced Islam. This event is seen as pivotal in the Pashtun people's connection to Islam.
- Connection to Khalid ibn al-Walid: Some traditions link Qais Abdur Rashid to Khalid ibn al-Walid, a prominent general in the early Islamic conquests, further solidifying his significance.
Significance
While historical evidence about Qais Abdur Rashid is based on oral traditions and genealogical accounts, his figure is deeply embedded in Pashtun identity and cultural history. His acceptance of Islam represents a foundational moment in the Pashtun narrative.
